The Bible – A Surprising Target for Theft
It may seem shocking, but the Bible is one of the most commonly stolen books from libraries across the world. Many people assume that spiritual texts like the Bible should be freely available to anyone who needs them. This belief can make some feel justified in simply taking a copy instead of checking it out properly. For others, the need for comfort or spiritual guidance becomes so urgent that the rules seem less important. In communities where religious texts are not easily accessible, the temptation to keep a library copy can be especially strong. According to the American Library Association, religious books—including the Bible—are consistently among the most stolen items. This shows just how deeply people value these texts, even if it means breaking the rules. The act isn’t always about malice; sometimes, it’s about hope or desperation.
The Guinness World Records – The Book of Bragging Rights
The Guinness World Records book is another top candidate for library theft, and it’s easy to see why. Colorful, packed with fascinating facts, and updated every year, it’s basically a magnet for curious minds—especially kids and teens. Many young readers are drawn to the excitement of breaking records or just reading about the wildest human achievements. The book also becomes a status symbol, something to show off to friends or siblings. Some libraries report spikes in thefts around the holidays, possibly because kids want their own copy as a gift. The combination of novelty, competition, and sheer fun makes this title one of the most frequently stolen. Libraries sometimes even keep these books behind the counter to slow down the losses.
The Joy of Sex – Privacy Over Procedure
Books about sex and relationships, like The Joy of Sex, often disappear from library shelves in a hush of embarrassment. Many people who want to educate themselves on intimate topics don’t want to be seen checking out these books. The worry about being judged can feel overwhelming, especially in smaller communities. Instead of risking a red face at the circulation desk, some simply slip the book into a bag and walk out. Librarians notice that popular titles in sexual health often vanish without a trace. This trend shows how powerful social stigma can be, even pushing people to break the law just to protect their privacy. Libraries are exploring more discreet ways to offer these books, but the problem remains.
Test Prep Books (SAT, GRE, LSAT) – High Stakes, High Demand
Test preparation books hold a unique place among the most stolen library items. For students facing the SAT, GRE, or LSAT, these resources can make the difference between success and disappointment. The pressure to perform well is intense, and not everyone can afford to buy their own copy. When demand outstrips supply, some desperate students decide to take matters into their own hands. In fact, several urban library systems report that test prep guides are stolen more often than almost any other non-fiction title. This reflects just how competitive the academic world has become, with some students feeling they have no choice but to steal to get ahead. The phenomenon highlights the sometimes unseen costs of educational inequality.
The Anarchist Cookbook – Rebellion and Curiosity
The Anarchist Cookbook is notorious for its controversial content and has become an underground favorite for those intrigued by rebellion or anti-establishment ideas. Some libraries have removed it from their shelves, but where it remains, it often “disappears” quickly. Young people or those curious about the forbidden are especially drawn to this title. The book’s reputation alone is enough to spark interest, sometimes leading to theft just for the thrill of possessing something so controversial. According to library staff, this book rarely returns once checked out, and copies left out in the open often go missing. The mixture of curiosity, controversy, and a dash of danger keeps The Anarchist Cookbook high on the list of most stolen books.
Stephen King Novels – Too Popular for Patience
Few authors have the devoted following that Stephen King enjoys. His horror and suspense novels are often checked out for months, creating long waiting lists. Some fans, unwilling to wait, simply steal the books instead. This is especially true for King’s most famous works, which never seem to stay on the shelves for long. Libraries in the United States and abroad report frequent disappearances of his novels, sometimes within days of their arrival. The thefts are not always motivated by malice—sometimes it’s just a fan’s impatience or a collector’s desire. The huge demand for his books means libraries are constantly buying new copies, only for them to vanish again and again.
Harry Potter Series – Magic Too Irresistible
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books are another perennial favorite among library thieves. Young readers and collectors alike are drawn to the magical world of Hogwarts, and some will do anything to own a piece of it. Libraries have reported that entire sets of the series go missing, especially around the time of movie releases or anniversaries. For many kids, the idea of sharing a well-loved library copy feels less special than having their own. The popularity of the series means that demand always exceeds supply. Collectors seeking first editions or themed covers can also drive theft. These books are so loved, people are willing to break rules just to keep them close.
Books on Witchcraft or the Occult – Secrets and Curiosity
Titles dealing with witchcraft, the occult, and related subjects have long been prone to theft. Curiosity about the unknown drives some to these books, while others may fear the judgment of friends or family if caught reading them. In some cases, the allure is simply the secrecy and sense of forbidden knowledge. Libraries have noticed that entire sections of metaphysical books can disappear overnight. As interest in alternative spirituality rises, so does the theft of these books. The trend suggests that curiosity, secrecy, and sometimes even a sense of adventure all play a role in why these titles go missing.
Alcoholics Anonymous “Big Book” – Anonymity at a Cost
The Alcoholics Anonymous “Big Book” is often stolen by people in recovery who want help without having their struggles made public. For many, the fear of being seen checking out this book can be intense. The desire for anonymity leads some to simply take the book rather than risk exposure. Libraries have reported that copies of the AA Big Book vanish more often than they are checked out. This pattern underscores the social stigma still attached to addiction and recovery. The book’s importance to those seeking help makes it both a vital resource and a frequent target for theft.
The Catcher in the Rye – A Classic for Rebels
J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye has always had a special appeal to teenagers and young adults. Its themes of alienation, rebellion, and adolescent angst speak directly to those going through turbulent times. Many young readers identify so strongly with Holden Caulfield that they take the book rather than wait for a copy. This novel has become a cult classic, with theft rates showing no signs of slowing down. Libraries across the globe have reported that this book is rarely on the shelf for long. Its enduring popularity ensures that it remains a favorite among both readers and thieves alike.
How-to-Steal or Hacking Manuals – The Irony of Theft
Books that teach readers how to break the rules—like “Steal This Book” or “The Hacker’s Handbook”—ironically attract those willing to steal them. The titles themselves are almost an invitation, and some readers simply can’t resist. Libraries have found that these books disappear far more often than they are borrowed legitimately. The thrill of the taboo, combined with a sense of being “in the know,” drives interest. Staff sometimes debate whether to stock these books at all, but their absence only increases their appeal. These manuals are a classic example of life imitating art—or at least title imitating action.
Atlas Shrugged – Controversy Breeds Curiosity
Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged is a political lightning rod, beloved by some and hated by others. Its controversial themes attract both passionate supporters and determined critics. Libraries often notice copies going missing, especially in politically active communities. Some people steal the book out of admiration, wanting a personal copy, while others may take it as a form of protest. The book’s hefty size and high price can also make it tempting to keep without returning. The debate around this novel only fuels its status as one of the most frequently stolen political works in libraries.
Books on Astrology – Stars and Sticky Fingers
Astrology books are consistently among the most stolen items in the metaphysical sections of libraries. The growing interest in horoscopes and star signs has made these titles more popular than ever. People curious about their fate or looking for guidance sometimes take these books home for good. The small size and colorful covers make them easy to slip into a bag or jacket. Some readers may feel embarrassed to check out books about astrology, especially in communities where such interests are still frowned upon. This combination of secrecy and popularity keeps astrology books high on the list of library losses.
Books on Marijuana Cultivation – Taboo and Utility
Books about growing marijuana are prime targets for theft, especially in regions where cannabis laws are still strict or unclear. The practical value of these guides makes them highly sought after. Some people are simply curious, while others want to avoid drawing attention by checking out such a book. Libraries have noticed that these titles rarely return, often disappearing from shelves within days of being added. The taboo surrounding marijuana only increases the appeal, as readers seek information without public scrutiny. As cannabis culture grows, so does the rate of theft for these how-to guides.
Art Books and Coffee Table Books – Beauty Worth Stealing
Large, visually stunning art books and coffee table editions are not just expensive—they’re irresistible to some would-be thieves. These books often feature high-quality prints, making them attractive for display in homes or offices. Their size and value mean they’re easy to resell or simply too tempting to return. Libraries report that art books are among the most frequently missing items, especially after major exhibitions or museum partnerships. The appeal of beauty, combined with the high price tag, makes these books an ongoing target for theft. Their disappearance is a quiet testament to the value people place on art and design.
True Crime Books – Morbid Curiosity
True crime books are another favorite among library thieves, feeding a deep fascination with the darker side of humanity. These books often feature sensational stories that readers may not want to be seen borrowing. The private nature of this curiosity can lead some to simply steal the book rather than check it out. Libraries have noticed that true crime sections are often picked clean, especially after a high-profile case hits the news. The combination of sensational content, secrecy, and genuine interest keeps these titles at the top of the most stolen list.
Sexual Health and Education Books – The Quiet Need
Sexual health and education books are often stolen for the same reason as The Joy of Sex—embarrassment and a need for privacy. Many people are too shy or worried about being judged to check out books on these topics openly. This quiet desperation leads to theft, even among adults. Libraries are aware that these books tend to disappear more often than others, especially in conservative areas. The lack of open conversation about sexual health only increases the problem. The books vanish, but the need for information remains.
Dungeons & Dragons Manuals – Collectible and Coveted
Manuals for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop games are highly collectible and often stolen by fans or gamers. The detailed artwork, specialized content, and frequent updates make these books valuable both for play and for collections. Libraries have reported that entire sets of gaming manuals can go missing in the space of a month. The popularity of role-playing games has soared in recent years, and demand for these manuals often outpaces supply. For fans, owning a copy can feel essential, pushing some to take the risk of theft.
Manga and Graphic Novels – Small, Popular, and Easy to Hide
Manga and graphic novels are especially popular among teens and young adults and are often some of the first items to go missing from libraries. Their small size makes them easy to conceal, and their colorful covers and serialized stories keep readers coming back for more. Libraries struggle to keep up with the demand, as new volumes vanish almost as soon as they arrive. The visual nature of manga and graphic novels makes them appealing for all ages, and their popularity shows no sign of slowing. The ease of theft and high demand make these books some of the most frequently stolen worldwide.
1984 – Ideology and Protest
George Orwell’s 1984 is not just a classic—it’s a book with deep political and social resonance. Some people steal it as a form of protest, seeing themselves as modern-day rebels against control and surveillance. Others simply feel a powerful connection to its dystopian message and want to keep a copy for themselves. Libraries consistently report that 1984 is one of their most frequently stolen novels. The book’s themes of freedom, control, and resistance make it especially appealing in times of political tension. The thefts reflect both admiration for the novel and a desire to make a personal statement.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
